Abstract: Myth is still alive in modern society and even in post-modern society, but its mode of existence, constructed as contemporary myth, is different from that of the traditional myths. Contemporary society also has its mythical thinking and mythological patterns. Contemporary myth is the contemporary creation responding to the creator' purpose and motivation, and it embodies the aesthetic characteristics of industrial society and cultural industry. The existence types of contemporary myth include the myth of science, myth of nation, myth of ethnic group, myth of heroes, myth of politics, and myth of consumption. To some extent, social ideology and literary production are also influenced by contemporary mythology.

Key words: myths, contemporary mythology, mythical thinking, aesthetic characteristics